For years I’ve read about the health benefits of the dandelion— a common spring and summer weed most of us ignore and discard without further thought or concern.
The dandelion is a super antioxidant that grows naturally on our lawns and truly deserves a whole lot more love than it receives!
Research supports ingesting dandelion could possibly fight off diseases, superbugs, cancer, Alzheimer’s and the list goes on. In addition it is said to possibly help increase energy and boost metabolism.
With all the free time I have around the house these days (thanks to Covid-19) and a plentiful bounty of dandelions popping up in every nook and cranny of my yard, I decided to do some foraging and give this edible green machine a try.
Let me tell you, I was so pleased with the outcome and thrilled I finally gave this superhero weed a try.
I was so impressed, I want to share with y’all some ideas of how you can prepare dandelions for your next meal and afternoon tea.
Four Steps to prepare dandelion greens:
STEP ONE:
After you pick your dandelions from the root, make sure to thoroughly wash with water to loosen any soil or dirt. You want to want to make sure to use the entire plant as it has so many benefits from the root, stem, leaves and flower.
Trim the leaves and stalks to use in a salad
or sauté on the stovetop with your choice of veggies.
Add delicious spices and ingredients to make the flavor pop and sauté. I chose to include minced garlic, salad vinegar, sea salt, pepper, olive oil, sage and spring onions. I also added half a can of ROTEL Diced Tomatoes and Green Chiles to give it a little spicy pop.
Sauté on medium heat for about ten minutes.
I prepared white rice to serve with the sautéed mixture as well.
Serve atop white rice for a delectable dish and get ready to let your taste buds sing! The dandelion greens reminded me of a collard/turnip taste. I am a lover of greens and realize now what I’ve been missing out on.
Dandelion Root, Turmeric and Ginger Tea— in Three Easy Steps.
Step One:
Trim the dandelion roots, fresh turmeric and ginger in small pieces with kitchen scissors. Place in a small baking dish or roasting pan and cook on 250 degrees in the oven for one hour.
Step Two:
Once the roots are roasted, mix with a spoon and crumble into tiny loose pieces. Place a tablespoon of the mixture into a loose tea infuser and steep in hot water for 5-10 minutes. You can also add a piece of spiced ginger and a cinnamon stick to increase the flavor and reduce a bitter taste.
Step Three:
Enjoy sipping on a lovely homemade tea blend and reap the health benefits!
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